2005 PreVail West Face - Alexander Valley [ $55 ]
At merely 2.75 tons per acre, the grapes for West Face are grown on the steep slopes of Ferrari-Carano’s LookOut Mountain which sits at the junction of Alexander Valley, Knights Valley and Chalk Hill appellations. This spectacular mountain vineyard boasts 360 degree views, soaring in elevation from 500 to 1,400 feet, with soils deep, red and rich with nutrients. Dark, concentrated aromas of anise, mocha and currant surround flavors of juicy blackberry, sweet dark cherry, milk chocolate, cinnamon, and cassis liqueur. Opulent roasted, caramel oak flavors come through with loads of dense, powerful tannins providing textural proof of this wine’s ageability.
Vintage Notes
These mountain vines with ideal western sun exposure are dry farmed in verdant soil that adds impressive depth and concentration of flavor intensity to the wine. A wet winter gave way to a late March warming trend making for great bud break and a quick start to the growing season. A mild summer yielded grapes of wonderful balance, bright varietal characteristics and rich, plentiful tannins. The last of the grapes were harvested in early November.
Winemakers Notes
The grapes for West Face are hand-harvested, and upon entering the winery, hand-sorted and then gravity fed directly into oak tanks for seven days of cold soaking. After primary fermentation, the wine is gravity fed to barrel for malolactic fermentation and aged in the wine caves for 22 months, with an additional 14 months aging in bottle prior to release.
| Appellation: |
Alexander Valley |
| Blend: |
65% Cabernet Sauvignon,
35% Syrah |
| Cooperage: |
60% new French and 40% older French oak barrels |
| Release Day: |
April 2009 |
